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Can Turmeric Support Thyroid Health?

Published May 05, 2015

Spices are one of the healthiest foods on the planet, and many people don’t realize just how potent they can be for supporting good health. Turmeric is just one of those spices, and when it comes to health benefits, nothing can match all it has to offer. Not only is turmeric one of the most impressive free radical scavengers, it’s also been shown to fight dementia, protect cell integrity, and combat depression. New research is showing that turmeric may also play a key role in supporting thyroid health, possibly reducing the likelihood of developing hypothyroidism.

Turmeric and Thyroid Health

If you’re wishing to maintain a healthy weight, a positive mood, and good energy levels, then you must keep your thyroid healthy. The thyroid regulates metabolism and keeps hormonal health in check; unfortunately, everything from plastics to pesticides are disturbing the thyroid’s delicate hormonal balance, contributing to the rise of thyroid disorders and other diseases in the world today. Fortunately, there are protective measures we can take to support our health in face of these environmental triggers. Turmeric, according to a recent study, may be one of the most efficient natural tools we can use.

According to the study, individuals who consumed turmeric on a regular basis were less likely to suffer from goiter, a common symptom of iodine deficiency. ^[1] Goiter and iodine deficiency are also two symptoms of hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid is producing insufficient amounts of thyroid hormone. This leads to weight gain, lethargy, and even depression. Can you see now how important thyroid health is for maintaining a sense of wellbeing? While researchers are unsure as to the cause of the correlation, it could be related to turmeric’s antioxidant, nutritive, and soothing qualities.

Turmeric Soothes Your Body

One of the main components contributing to turmeric’s health benefits is its soothing qualities. ^[2] Turmeric may soothe irritation in blood vessels, skin, and the brain, and researchers believe this—along with its antioxidant potential—is what supports thyroid health. The thyroid, when it’s irritated by endocrine disruptors of any kind, needs to be soothed before it is repaired, and turmeric may do just that.

How to Use Turmeric

The powdered spice is perhaps the most commonly-used turmeric option, typically incorporated into things like curries and soups. It gives a distinct yellow color to foods and adds enormous health benefits with very little bulk. A liquid extract, may provide more benefits over the powdered and fresh root options available at most grocery stores. Liquid extracts are more concentrated and offer a greater punch, and these can be incorporated into smoothies, beverages, or consumed straight without any taste issues.

Do you enjoy turmeric? How do you use it? Please let us know how you enjoy this ancient spice in the comments!

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM